Pastoral Services

Pastoral Services

Weddings, Renewal of Vows, Blessings, Counseling, and other Ceremonies

The commitment of two persons to each other under the love of God through Christ is an occasion for much joy and celebration. It is also an occasion for serious-minded covenant making and commitment keeping. Clifton UMC is pleased to provide pastoral guidance and community support for couples seeking to publicly declare their promises to one another.

Our pastor is available to assist couples with pastoral counseling, wedding ceremonies, renewal of vows, blessings of changed relationships, and other covenant ceremonies.

Baptism, Blessings, and Renewal of Baptism

God’s blessings attend all of God’s children. Baptism is a holy moment when the action of God’s blessing is confirmed in the community of God’s people the church. Baptism is available for infants, children, youth and adults. There is no wrong or right age. If parents are responding to the call of God to raise their children in the community of God’s love and faith in Christ, then the pastor and church will work with them to plan a baptism. If a child, youth, or adult has responded to the love of God poured out to them by expressing interest in being baptized and included in God’s family of faith, then the pastor and church will work with them to plan a baptism. If someone desires faith renewal, the pastor will explore alternatives. If someone seeks a blessing rather than baptism, the pastor will discuss options.

Time of Death: Funerals, Memorial Services, and Anointing

Death marks a transition for followers of Christ, therefore the pastor and church are available to assist families in the rituals that accompany death. The pastor is available to be with persons who are dying and their families. Prayers and anointing with oil are healing moments that the pastor can bring.

Following death, the pastor and church are available to assist with funeral planning, funeral services, and memorial services.

Times of Illness and Distress

There are times along the journey when persons encounter illness of heart, soul, mind, and strength. If you or someone you love is struggling with health concerns, spiritual issues, or emotional distress, the pastoral services of Clifton United Methodist Church are available to bring God’s care and healing presence. Hospital visits, prayers, and anointing with oil are healing moments that the pastor can bring.

Other Life Moments

There is nothing that can separate those embraced by Christ from God’s love and blessing. Therefore, everything in life can be brought under God’s profound blessing. It doesn’t make bad things good, but brings God’s perspective to all of life’s situations. The pastor and church are available to bless homes, cars, pets, backpacks, graduations, reunions, and vacations.